Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful morning treat that combines bright flavors and a touch of sweetness, this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is just what you need! Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked cake, with tart cranberries and zesty orange filling your kitchen. It’s not just a breakfast option; it’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or even as a cozy snack during your afternoon tea break.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a moist and flavorful cake that will impress everyone. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed for all skill levels—making it a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: You can have this cake ready in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast or dessert; it fits any occasion!
• Family-friendly flavor: The combination of cranberries and orange appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance, and enjoy it fresh for days!
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, nourishing components that you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these staples in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• Zest from 1 large orange
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

Fruit

• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have at home!

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Change the fruit: Substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different berry delight.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Include spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven warms up, you can prepare your batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour, ensuring that your cake rises perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which is key for achieving a light texture in your cake.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, orange zest, and orange juice into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined. The yogurt adds moisture while keeping the cake tender—definitely not something you’ll want to skip!

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake! Finally, fold in those beautiful halved cranberries for bursts of tartness throughout.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warm citrus goodness!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice yourself a piece (or two) and enjoy this lovely Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake! It’s sure to brighten up any morning!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

Baking this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and butter to room temperature allows for better mixing and a fluffier texture in your cake. Cold ingredients can lead to a denser cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet ensures a light and tender crumb. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake.
• Adjust baking times based on your oven: Every oven is unique! Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Enhance the flavor with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the orange and cranberry beautifully, giving your breakfast cake an extra layer of warmth and depth.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some delightful ways to present this treat at your breakfast table or brunch gathering.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal without overpowering the flavors.
• Orange zest: Freshly grated orange zest on top brightens up the presentation and reinforces the citrus flavor that complements the cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making it a balanced breakfast option that pairs well with the tartness of the cake.
• Mixed berries: A side of fresh mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, provides vibrant color and balances out the flavors with their natural sweetness.
• Honey or maple syrup: Offering honey or maple syrup on the side gives guests an option to drizzle sweetness over their slice, enhancing their breakfast experience.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Serving this cake alongside a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee makes for a cozy morning treat that everyone will enjoy.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake! Enjoy every delightful bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious cake fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• If you notice the cake starting to dry out, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, place them on a microwave-safe plate and warm for about 15-20 seconds.
• For larger portions or the entire cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm wrapped slices for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use frozen cranberries in this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries directly without thawing. Just fold them into the batter as you would with fresh ones.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe?

You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if preferred. Both will maintain the cake’s moistness and flavor.

How do I know when my breakfast cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If it comes out wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to personalize your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips if you desire a sweet twist.

Is this recipe suitable for a brunch gathering?

Definitely! This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any brunch spread.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this delightful Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake! Its vibrant flavors and moist texture make it a wonderful treat that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy breakfast at home or a festive gathering with friends. Don’t hesitate to whip up this recipe; I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Happy baking!